$100 million Redress Scheme for Children Abused in Queensland Institutions

The Queensland Government has implemented a Redress Scheme to complete its response to the recommendations of the Forde Inquiry into the Abuse of Children in Queensland Institutions.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Anna Bligh said up to $100 million was available for distribution by way of ex gratia payments to eligible former child residents of Queensland institutions and detention centres.

“I know that money can never really compensate for the harm that some residents suffered in institutions.

“Our hope is that this Redress Scheme will offer some support and assistance and will help bring some closure to individuals and families.

“This Redress Scheme will offer payments of $7000 to those former residents who experienced abuse or neglect while in care.

“A second payment of up to $33,000 will be available in cases where there is evidence of abuse or neglect that was more serious.

“It is only because of our strong economic performance in 2006–07, which is producing a healthy surplus, that we are able to establish this one-off scheme."

Ms Bligh said the focus of the Queensland Government up until this point had been on the pressing need to reform the current child protection system.

“This year our Child Safety Department has completed the implementation of the 110 reforms recommended by the CMC Report , and child protection is now funded in Queensland above national levels,” she said.

“I am very pleased to be in position now to complete our response to the Forde Inquiry. It has been a long journey but I hope this brings those who suffered closer to a place of peace.

“I want to commend the work that has been done by the Department of Communities and, in particular, the contribution by the Historical Abuse Network in reaching where we are today.”

Communities Minister Warren Pitt said the Redress Scheme aimed to provide material assistance to former child residents in acknowledgement of the harm they suffered while in institutional care.

“The government has decided to proceed with this initiative instead of an alternative proposal based on a services access card,” Mr Pitt said.

“The government has given preference to this initiative as it provides direct material assistance in the form of monetary payments.”

"We will consult with the Historical Abuse Network on the best way to administer the scheme.”

He said Queensland was the only jurisdiction in Australia to establish a formal process of ongoing dialogue between the government and former residents.

“We have introduced a range of community based support services, specifically to address the needs of former residents and improve their access to government services,” he said.

Mr Pitt said the scheme was consistent with the sentiments of the Senate Community Affairs References Committee’s 2004 report, Forgotten Australian: A report on Australians who experienced institutional or out-of-home care as children.

Applications for the Redress Scheme need to be lodged between 1 October 2007 and 30 June 2008.

For further information or to request an application kit, call the Redress Scheme information line on 1300 769 291 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday to Saturday.

Media contacts:
Deputy Premier and Treasurer’s Office: 3224 6900
Minister Pitt’s Office: 3235 4280